Google’s updating a lot of the core apps lately. Tonight, it’s Android Device Manager’s turn. Since being introduced last month, the app has only been updated with things like bug fixes. Now, Google has added a new feature for better security.

Previously, if you wanted to prevent your data from getting into someone’s hands, you either had track the device and hope that the person would get into it, or wipe the device. Now, you can set up a password to lock your device down, while still being able to track it.

That feature alone really makes Device Manager on par with other services, such as Apple’s Find My iPhone service. Now instead of just only tracking or wiping, you can lock and track at the same time. Google also updated the screen in the “Device administrators” screen in settings, along with a new permission for controlling the status of a wifi connection.

Device Admin Settings

New Permission

Google hasn’t announced these changes anywhere yet, but they most likely will tomorrow in either a press release or on Google Plus. If you want the changes now instead of waiting for the staged rollout, download the APK from the link here or below. Good luck with the new security if you have to use it (which you hopefully never do).

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: we are not affiliated with the device manufacturers or phone carriers we mention in any way, all suggestions are based on our own experience and research, you may use our advice at your own discretion.